The Art of Stillness: Pencil Drawing Workshop with a Japanese Master

In this special New York session, a master artist from Japan will guide participants through the essential techniques of pencil-based realism—ranging from choosing the right materials to understanding how highlights and shadows bring depth and presence to everyday objects. Designed for all levels, this hour-and-a-half workshop provides a rare opportunity to learn traditional Japanese approaches to capturing stillness, form, and atmosphere. With all materials provided, participants can relax and focus entirely on the meditative process of drawing while deepening their artistic skills under expert guidance.

The class will cover the following topics:

◯ How to choose and use paper and pencils for realistic drawing
◯ Techniques for accurately transferring motifs onto paper
◯ How to express a sense of depth through the use of highlights and shadows
◯ Methods for conveying stillness and presence in accordance with the motif

About the Instructor: Kunuko Okazaki

A dentist by profession, I am deeply familiar with the structure of the human body. Since 2020, I have been pursuing pencil drawing as a self-taught artist. Combining precise observation with delicate expression, I aim to create works that are as realistic as photographs, yet imbued with the invisible presence and spirit within the subject.

I have studied under the hyperrealist pencil artist Shinichi Furutani, and as his first apprentice, I have learned the essence of pencil drawing. Currently based in Toyama, Japan, I hold exhibitions and workshops both domestically and

internationally, including in New York and Florida.

The central theme of my work is “a moment of life.”

I am drawn to capturing the quiet warmth and breath of human existence, visualized through the subtle gradations of graphite.

March 2025 – New York, USA

Conducted pencil drawing workshops at a senior home in Eastchester, Mama’s Space NY, and NY Mama Salon in Manhattan, using pencils kindly provided by Tombow Pencil Co., Ltd. The workshops were featured in the Japanese-language newspaper New York Biz.

June 2025 – Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, Japan

Two works were selected and exhibited at the 78th Women Artists Association Exhibition, and were considered for the general award.

July 2025 – Marugame, Kagawa, Japan

Participated in a charity event organized by the NPO Mirai ISSEY, which supports children with illnesses and their families. Conducted a pencil drawing workshop as part of art-based support activities.

September 2025 – Pensacola, Florida, USA / University of West Florida

At the University of West Florida, I was invited as a guest instructor to the Art Department’s 2D

class. Professor Jason remarked, “The students were deeply engaged, and this workshop will surely contribute to their growth.”

As a dentist accustomed to observing individuals closely, I strive to guide participants with care—helping them cultivate both observational and expressive skills through art.

At the Pensacola Museum of Art, I conducted a pencil drawing workshop for children aged 10 and above, which was so well received that it reached full capacity with a waiting list.

At the Ever'man Educational Center, I held a workshop for adults focusing on expressive realism through careful observation. Takami, a faculty member who introduced these three Florida venues, commended my approach, stating:

> “Dr. Okazaki’s sincerity and artistic insight make her workshops highly educational and inspiring. Her activities carry great significance for international cultural exchange, and we look forward to her continued success.”

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